Birmingham City may lose some key players after being relegated to League One.
Owner Tom Wagner is definitely devoted to the Blues’ quest, but sales may be inescapable this summer, given their roster of young players.
They will be one of the most appealing third-tier sides to sign this summer, which is a huge plus, but vultures are likely to be circling for some of their top players.
Following a successful summer window last year, when Birmingham began to prepare for the long term, more acquisitions may be necessary to replace individuals who are poised to be released or poached by other clubs.
Ahead of the summer window, we take a look at players who could attract plenty of interest in the coming months.
Jordan James
Jordan James graduated from Blues’ youth academy, which may indicate that he is more loyal to the club than others, but the prospect of playing in a higher league following such a great 2023/24 season will likely appeal to him.
He’ll also be looking to keep his position in Wales’ squad, which may not be guaranteed if he plays in the third division next season, thus the 19-year-old could be on his way out.
His present contract with St Andrew’s expires next year, and it is unclear whether they have the option to extend it for another year.
However, relegation may have hampered Birmingham’s prospects of retaining one of its most promising players. If they receive an offer of £15 million or more, they should probably consider selling him.
Blues should be prepared for interest in his signing, as Atalanta and Bologna are both said to be interested in bringing the midfielder to Italy.
In recent months, he has also been linked with a move to Crystal Palace, who have remained in the top tier and could potentially afford to sign the Welshman.
Palace have previously had success in the EFL market, with Eberechi Eze, Michael Olise, and Adam Wharton all moving from second-tier teams, which may inspire Oliver Glasner’s side to seek a deal for James.
Krystian Bielik
Krystian Bielik may have endured injuries during his time at Derby County, diminishing his chances of playing regularly at the top level for a significant portion of his career, but many believe he is too excellent for the third tier.
Playing for Poland at the senior international level, he is likely to want to stay at a high level, which could improve his prospects of playing in the Premier League in the future.
He still has two years left on his contract, which has put the Midlands side in a good negotiating position, but they may struggle to turn down a proposal that meets their valuation.
It would not be surprising if he returned to the Championship after moving from the third tier previously.
His versatility, as a 26-year-old who can play as both a centre-back and a central midfielder, may be particularly appealing to interested teams.
Birmingham, on the other hand, should be eager to keep him, given that his contract is still valid for two years.
Juninho Bacuna
Juninho Bacuna will face his previous club Huddersfield Town again if he remains put.
However, it might be claimed that the Curacao international is another player who is far too talented to play in the third division.
The dynamic midfielder can be a very efficient player in the last third, as evidenced by his performances last season.
His contract expires next year, and with vultures circling for him, it would not be surprising if Birmingham chose to cash in on him over those on longer-term terms in the Midlands.
It would be a huge loss for Blues if he left, as he has been an asset to the team throughout his time there.
Losing him for free would be a huge loss, so they should be willing to sell.
